Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Friday levelled serious allegations against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), claiming the party acts as a facilitator and political wing of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which he said was why the militant group does not target PTI leaders.
Speaking to the media in Islamabad, Tarar alleged that PTI leaders in the past had referred to terrorists as “martyrs” and accused the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government of remaining silent over repeated incidents of terrorism in the province.
He said PTI’s conduct reflected a reluctance to speak openly against the banned TTP, adding that the provincial government and its spokespersons had failed to condemn the militant organisation or even comment on the martyrdom of Pakistan Army personnel.
The information minister criticised governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stating that the province was being run by what he described as “small-minded people,” and alleged that governance had collapsed entirely.
He said the provincial government’s performance had come under serious question amid a surge in terror-related incidents.
Referring to the recent visit of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister to Lahore, Tarar condemned remarks made about women during the visit, calling them inappropriate, regrettable and unacceptable.
“A hollow and cowardly person always attacks women,” he said, adding that such statements had no place in a civilised society.
Tarar also highlighted the performance of the incumbent federal government, claiming it had pulled the country back from the brink of default and set Pakistan on a path of economic stability.
He said 2025 proved to be a year of achievements for Pakistan, citing success on security fronts, economic recovery and an improved global standing.
He said that under the leadership of the country’s field marshal, the armed forces achieved significant successes, including what he described as international acknowledgement of Indian aircraft being shot down.
He added that Pakistan had now joined the ranks of emerging economies, with the stock market hitting record highs and foreign exchange reserves showing consistent growth.
According to the information minister, the prime minister emphasises the promotion of Pakistani products during every foreign visit, contributing to a more positive image of Pakistan in international markets.